Grape cider is a unique and delicious beverage that combines the flavors of apples and Concord grapes. This delightful drink is made from 100% Northwest apple cider and fresh-pressed Concord grapes, resulting in a tart and addicting flavor profile. While traditionally a seasonal release, grape cider is now available year-round in 19.2oz cans and limited draft options.
What sets grape cider apart is its combination of tartness and sweetness. The natural acidity of the apples and the distinctive tartness of Concord grapes create a perfectly balanced and refreshing taste. The cider is semi-sweet, making it a great choice for those who prefer a less sugary beverage.
One of the best ways to enjoy grape cider is by serving it warm. You can easily prepare a warm batch by combining the grape juice, cinnamon, star anise, allspice, ginger, and grapes in a slow cooker or medium stockpot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it steep for at least 20 minutes before serving in mugs. The warm and aromatic flavors will make this cider a comforting treat on a chilly day.
Not only is grape cider delicious, but it also offers potential health benefits. Muscadine grapes, the variety used to make Concord grape cider, are known for their high antioxidant content. In vitro studies have shown that the antioxidants found in Muscadines may have positive effects against various types of cancers, including prostate, blood, and colon cancers. These grapes also contain Resveratrol, a naturally occurring compound that is currently being praised for its anti-aging, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and blood sugar-lowering properties.
Grape cider can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of foods. Its tartness makes it a great accompaniment to rich dishes, such as roasted meats or hearty stews. The sweetness also pairs well with desserts like apple pie or cheesecake. For a refreshing twist, you can even mix grape cider with sparkling water or use it as a base for cocktails.
Grape cider is a unique and delicious beverage that combines the flavors of apples and Concord grapes. Its tart and semi-sweet taste, along with its potential health benefits, make it a popular choice among cider enthusiasts. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, on its own or paired with food, grape cider is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed year-round. So why not give it a try and discover the delightful flavors of grape cider for yourself?
What Is Grape Cider?
Grape cider, specifically Concord Grape cider, is a type of beverage that combines the flavors of apple cider and fresh-pressed Concord Grapes. It is made by blending 100% Northwest apple cider with the juice of these tart and flavorful grapes. The end result is a deliciously tangy and semi-sweet treat that is known for its addictive taste.
Grape cider is typically available in 19.2oz cans and occasionally on tap, making it convenient for consumption both at home and at various establishments. Unlike some seasonal releases, Concord Grape cider is available year-round, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy this delightful drink whenever they crave it.
The flavor profile of grape cider is characterized by the tartness of the Concord Grapes, which adds a unique twist to the traditional apple cider taste. The combination of the sweetness from the apples and the acidity from the grapes creates a balanced and refreshing beverage that appeals to a wide range of palates.
Grape cider, particularly Concord Grape cider, is a delightful and addictive blend of 100% Northwest apple cider and fresh-pressed Concord Grapes. Its availability in 19.2oz cans and limited draft ensures that it can be enjoyed throughout the year. The tart and semi-sweet flavor profile makes it a delicious treat for cider enthusiasts.
Can You Make Cider Out Of Grapes?
It is possible to make cider out of grapes. Grape cider, also known as grape cider or apple wine, is a refreshing and flavorful alternative to traditional apple cider. Here are the steps to make grape cider:
1. Choose the right grapes: Select a variety of grapes that are suitable for making cider. Some popular choices include Concord, Muscat, and Niagara grapes. Make sure the grapes are ripe and free from any mold or damage.
2. Wash and crush the grapes: Thoroughly wash the grapes to remove any dirt or debris. Remove the stems and crush the grapes to release the juice. You can use a grape crusher or simply squeeze the grapes by hand.
3. Extract the juice: Place the crushed grapes in a press or use a muslin cloth to extract the juice. Apply pressure to the grapes to extract as much juice as possible. Collect the juice in a clean container.
4. Add yeast: To ferment the grape juice and turn it into cider, add a suitable yeast strain. Different yeast strains can produce varying flavors, so choose one that complements the grape variety you are using. Follow the instructions provided by the yeast manufacturer for the appropriate amount to add.
5. Fermentation: Transfer the juice and yeast mixture to a fermentation vessel, such as a glass carboy or food-grade plastic container. Fit the vessel with an airlock to allow carbon dioxide to escape while preventing oxygen from entering. Store the vessel in a cool, dark place and let it ferment for several weeks. During this time, the yeast will consume the sugars in the grape juice, converting them into alcohol.
6. Rack and age: After the initial fermentation, transfer the cider to a secondary vessel, leaving behind any sediment at the bottom. This process, known as racking, helps clarify the cider. Allow the cider to age for several months to develop its flavors. You can also add additional ingredients like spices or fruits during this aging process for added complexity.
7. Bottle and carbonate (optional): If you prefer carbonated grape cider, you can add a small amount of sugar or honey to the cider before bottling. This will create carbonation as the yeast consumes the added sugar. Use proper bottling techniques to ensure a safe and carbonated final product.
8. Enjoy: Once the cider has aged and carbonated (if desired), it is ready to be enjoyed. Serve chilled and savor the unique flavors of homemade grape cider.
Note: Making cider at home involves fermentation, which can sometimes be unpredictable. It is important to maintain cleanliness and follow proper sanitation practices throughout the process to avoid contamination and spoilage.
Conclusion
Grape cider is a unique and flavorful beverage that combines the tartness of Concord grapes with the sweetness of apple cider. This delightful blend creates a semi-sweet and addicting taste that is sure to please cider lovers. With its availability year-round in convenient 19.2oz cans and limited draft, grape cider is a treat that can be enjoyed at any time. Not only does grape cider offer a delicious drinking experience, but it also provides potential health benefits due to the antioxidants found in Muscadine grapes. These antioxidants have been shown to have positive effects against various types of cancers, making grape cider not only a tasty choice but also a potentially beneficial one. So, whether you're looking for a refreshing and flavorful beverage or a potential health boost, grape cider is definitely worth a try.
